Below are some answers to some of the FAQ's regarding JV3 assessments! 

What is a JV3 assessment?

 JV3 is an alternative assessment for non-residential buildings. It uses a reference building to compare the overall assumed energy consumption of new buildings with respect to their location and climate.  

The process involves the comparison of a proposed design with a DtS reference building whilst also taking into account the specific location and weather data of the proposed building. If the sum of the whole building does not exceed the maximum annual energy consumption, this then allows for much more flexibility in the projects designs.

The highly qualified team at Certified Energy can answer any of your JV3 related questions with ease!

 What are some benefits of a JV3:

• Provides greater design flexibility
• Can allow for designs that are unattainable with DtS requirements to be implemented
• Supersedes the requirement of floor insulation and the glazing calculator.  
• Results in a more rational design that costs less to construct
• Design improvements include increased energy performance, aesthetics, and reduced complexity in design.

 How is JV3 assessed?

 The proposed buildings annual energy consumption is not to be greater than the annual energy consumption allowance.

There are multiple steps in the JV3 Verification Method:

1. Determine the consumption of annual energy allowance by using a reference building with DtS provisions to model the criteria in JV3.
2. Calculate the theoretical amount of annual energy consumption of the proposed Performance Solution through the building criteria of the subject or the criteria in Specification JV.
3. Calculate the theoretical amount of annual energy consumption of the proposed performance solution by modelling the services with that of the reference building
4. Compare the output of steps 2 and 3 (theoretical annual energy consumption) to the output of step 1 (annual energy consumption allowance). This ensures that the annual energy consumption is not greater than the allowance.

How much does a JV3 assessment cost?

 JV3 assessments generally take more time to assess compared to a Section J report. Consequently, this generally means JV3 assessments are more expensive in price.

 At Certified Energy we have helped many designers, builders and architects with their local governments energy requirements by providing alternative assessments. Our team of Architects and Engineers will deliver your assessment as soon as possible!

What are the requirements of a JV3 assessment?

 A JV3 assessment requires an accurate 3D model of the proposed building with the correct location, orientation and climate information imputed into the software.Lighting, occupancy and external heat loads are also required.

There are three main facets involved in the JV3 process:

1. Inputs: The design documentation
2. Outputs: Preliminary DtS assessment of Section J and JV3 report, feedback with the client and the final JV3 report
3. Calculations: building reference model

When is a JV3 Assessment required?

A JV3 assessment is an alternative solution when a Section J report cannot be obtained. It is required when a buildings design does not meet the Deemed to Satisfy (DtS) requirements under the National Construction Code (NCC). JV3 is considered a non-residental equivalent of a NatHERS assessment.  

 For more information regarding JV3 certifications, contact Certified Energy. Our team are willing to answer any of your enquires to assist in your project reaching its full potential.